Deacon Willie Ben Powell

And the king said unto his servants, Know ye not that there is a prince and a great man fallen this day in Israel?” II Samuel 3:38

Today, we pause to pay tribute to the memory of Willie Ben Powell, who was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He was one who loved his family with all his heart, and not only nurtured his family, but enriched the lives of many.

The Man of A Lifetime:

“Man that is born of a woman is of few days and full of trouble. He cometh forth like a flower…” - Job 14:1-2 

On Monday, May 26, 1930, our dear loved one was born to the loving care of the late Milo and Julia Ann Powell. Willie Ben Powell grew and developed into a compassionate and hardworking young man. As life progressed, he was educated in the Southampton County School System. Being brought up in a Christian home, he learned the true value of relationship with the Lord and joined the Jerusalem Baptist Church in Skippers, Virginia. He later went on to fellowship with St. John Church of Christ in Jarratt, Virginia. He was ordained a Deacon at St. Matthews House of Prayer #2, under the leadership of his son, Pastor Jerry L. Powell, until his health declined.

The Message of Love:

“If I can do my duty, as a good man ought, If I can bring back beauty, to a world up wrought, If I can spread love’s message, as the Master taught, Then my living shall not be in vain.”

'Big Daddy', as he was affectionately called, was a Powerful and Good man of God, who always spoke words of wisdom and love. You could often find him singing, fishing and hunting. He loved being in the natural environment and his dogs, hogs and garden. As a great provider to his family, he became gainfully employed with the American Box Company for 26 years. Afterwhich, he retired from Greensville County Public Schools after 10 years of service. Willie loved his family, friends and would do anything to help anyone in need. Willie Ben was united in Holy Matrimony to the love of his life Rosa 'Sister' Garris. They were blessed to have celebrated over 60 years of marriage and to this union five children were born.

The Memories of Life:

“A great man is one who leaves others at a loss after he is gone.” “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” (II Timothy 4: 6-7)

On Sunday, June 28, 2020, God called his angel and faithful servant home. He is now reunited with his parents, son, Willie Melvin 'Buck' Powell and sister, Frances Sims.

Though the clouds may hang over, there will be a brighter day. In that land that they call heaven, God shall wipe all tears away. His life and legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of: his wife, Rosa of the home; son, Pastor Jerry Powell (Virginia); daughters, Tessie Cooper (Gary), Barbara Gillis (Bernard) and Betty Lucas (Russell); grandchildren, LaTonya ‘Peaches’ Lucas (Randolph), LaKiecha Moody (Micheal), Toron Gillis (Nikki), Sparkle Bland (Randy), Tamra Gillis, and Jerry Powell ‘JP’; great-grandchildren, A’yonta, Mi’Angel, Willie, Tyler and Landon; brother-in-law, Tommie Garris (Lou); a host of other relatives and friends.   

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mr. Powell's tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family.  

The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide

"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"

to the family of Mr. Willie Ben Powell.

We ask that you join us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

 "Diligent in Business; Fervent in Spirit." - Romans: 12:11

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Deacon Willie Ben Powell, please visit our floral store.